Yala National Park

Yala is the most famous national park in Sri Lanka and the island's premier safari destination, a landscape of dry scrub, forest, lagoons and coastline in the southeast. It boasts one of the highest densities of leopards anywhere in the world, giving visitors a genuine chance of spotting the elusive cat, alongside elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, water buffalo, spotted deer and a spectacular variety of birds, all explored on jeep safaris.

What you actually see

• The leopards - one of the best chances in the world to see a wild leopard.
• The elephants - the herds roaming the park.
• The wildlife - sloth bears, crocodiles, buffalo and deer.
• The birdlife - the lagoons and their abundant birds.

When to go

February to July, the drier season, is best, when water is scarce and animals gather at the remaining waterholes; the park usually closes for part of the dry season, often around September, so check dates. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for wildlife.

Honest expectations

Its very popularity means the most accessible zone can get crowded with jeeps, especially clustering around a leopard sighting, which detracts from the wilderness feel; quieter blocks or the early morning help. Leopards, though relatively likely here, are never guaranteed. It is hot and dusty. The park usually closes for a period in the dry season, so check.

Nearby

The southern beaches, Bundala bird park and the town of Tissamaharama are nearby.